Domestic violence is a senseless crime that is too often overlooked and underreported. It can be physical, sexual, emotional or verbal. The problem is growing. Nearly 25% of surveyed women and 8% of men were physically assaulted or raped by a current or former spouse or acquaintance. One in four adolescents report verbal, physical, emotional or sexual abuse each year.
Working together, we can change attitudes and perceptions about domestic and dating violence. The cycle of violence must stop. If you or someone you know is being abused, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-SAFE (7233) or 800-787-3224. Education and prevention are the keys to success. More information can be obtained from the U.S. Dept. of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women at 202-307-6026 or at www.ovw.usdoj.gov.
Richard J. Arsenault, 2011
